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Navy ROTC students practice ship management during a virtual simulation at the James B. Hunt Library.

Defense and Security Institute

The Defense and Security Institute helps NC State respond more efficiently to emerging and important opportunities in defense and security. Our faculty, staff and leadership bring stakeholders together to develop the Institute’s aligned vision, mission and goals — and continue building NC State’s capacity and statewide leadership in this critical space.

$49 million in annual DoD research expenditures FY24

Leading the UNC system

20 startup companies have received DoD SBIR/STTR awards

to commercialize NC State-owned intellectual property

Nearly 620,000 veterans live in NC

representing roughly 8% of the state’s population

“NC State already has the expertise and capabilities to deliver strong results in the defense and security space, and the institute will help us to amplify the focus and connect our expertise to government and industry partners and ensure our efforts are coordinated and strategic.”

Krista Walton

Krista Walton

Vice Chancellor for Research and Innovation